Project description

The scale-up from laboratory scale to industrial scale is one of the central challenges in process engineering. A reliable scale-up forms the basis for efficient and time-saving process development of new synthesis routes.

As part of this research project, sustainable and resource-saving scale-up methods are being developed using selected hydrogenation reactions. The aim of the project is to provide methodologies and technologies for evidence-based and model-supported chemical process development.

Comprehensive knowledge of the underlying chemical-physical processes and their reliable description using mathematical models are crucial for the efficient and sustainable operation of these syntheses. To this end, three methods are being developed in order to guarantee rapid analysis of new material systems. First, a machine learning tool for the prediction of chemical equilibria, which was developed at RPTU, will be validated. The second method is a novel screening apparatus that guarantees efficient catalyst and solvent screening. In addition, a differential circulation reactor was developed at the LRF, which makes it possible to carry out reaction kinetic investigations under very well defined conditions (thermal, chemical, fluid dynamic). This novel reactor concept makes it possible to develop robust and resilient scale-up strategies up to industrial scale.

Central elements of the project:

• Design and construction of a universally applicable screening apparatus for hydrogenation reactions
• Systematic screening of catalysts and solvents
• Development and calibration of a quantitative analysis methodology
• Performance of reaction kinetic experiments in a differential circulation reactor
• Investigation of various hydrogenation syntheses
• Creation of a kinetic model
• Model-based scale-up of the reaction
• Transfer and communication with associated partners

Project partners

The research project is funded as part of the EnaChem project. About the VIVET innovation community there is also access to numerous industrial partners.